Full Breakdown
Western Rivers Conservancy Acquires Land Along the Saint Joe River
1/3/2026, 11:11:04 AM
Key Details of the Acquisition
In November 2025, the Western Rivers Conservancy finalized the purchase of 585 acres along the Saint Joe River and Fishhook Creek, a significant acquisition aimed at enhancing public access and protecting vital river habitats. The land, purchased from PotlatchDeltic, the largest private landowner in Idaho, is expected to be transferred to the U.S. Forest Service in the coming year. The specific purchase price was not disclosed, but an appraisal valued the property at over $2 million.
Importance of the Land
The newly acquired land is located approximately two miles west of the town of Avery, Idaho, and includes over half a mile of Fishhook Creek, a tributary that plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. Jessica Inwood from the Western Rivers Conservancy emphasized the property's value for public access and its significance for native species, particularly bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout. The Saint Joe River is recognized as one of the premier cutthroat streams in the United States, flowing 140 miles from its source in the Bitterroot Mountains to Lake Coeur d'Alene.
Ecological Significance
Mike Thomas, a fisheries biologist for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, noted the importance of Fishhook Creek as a spawning habitat for cutthroat trout and a source of cold water during summer months. The acquisition is seen as a strategic move to secure long-term public benefit and habitat preservation in the region.
Community Support and Reactions
The acquisition has garnered support from local organizations, including the Panhandle Chapter of Trout Unlimited. Chip Corsi, the chapter's president, expressed that the deal represents a significant win for public access and wildlife conservation. He stated, “Wildlife and fish are better served with it in long-term public ownership.” The project has been backed by funding from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which is anticipated to facilitate the transfer to the Forest Service.
Official Statements
Bill DeReu, vice president of real estate for PotlatchDeltic, remarked that the deal “provides perpetual public benefit on the Saint Joe River.” This sentiment reflects a broader consensus among conservationists and local stakeholders regarding the positive implications of the acquisition for both recreational access and ecological health.
What's Next
As the transfer process to the U.S. Forest Service unfolds, stakeholders are hopeful that the necessary funding will be secured in the upcoming months, ensuring the land's protection and public accessibility for future generations.
